DD Act Projects of National Significance (PNS)

Why the Program is Needed

Programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) must be developed and tested before implementing them on a broader scale. In addition, opportunites for program innovation are needed in order to address unmet needs and emerging issues for people with ID/D.

What it Does

Provides grants and contracts that enhance the independence, productivity, inclusion, and integration of people with developmental disabilities. Current PNS priorities include improving state employment policies and outcomes of individuals with developmental disabilities, collecting data on family support and service outcomes, and providing technical assistance and training for AIDD network entities.

Authorizing Legislation

Recent Funding

Examples of Projects of National Significance and The Arc

The Arc of the U.S. operates Autism NOW. The central point of the project is a highly visible website that provides access resources and information on community-based services and interventions for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, through a national dissemination network, regional events, training and technical assistance and an innovative web presence. The project also offers free weekly webinars on a variety of topics relating to ASDs and and other disabilities.

The Arc of Maryland developed a gender violence prevention curriculum for women with developmental disabilities. The curriculum - The Personal SPACE Program - was developed by women with developmental disabilities, family members, and professionals in the fields of developmental disabilities, sex education, counseling, violence prevention, training, and evaluation.